Betty Cramer provides an update on Benzie Food Partners, one of four food pantries serving residents in Benzie County.
 
Based in Honor, Benzie Food Partners is an independent charitable organization open to the public the first and third Thursdays of every month. A totally volunteer-managed project, the group purchases food at wholesale prices from the Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank.  It also receives regular and special bakery donations and seasonal products from other fresh food partnerships and generous local businesses.
 
In 2013 Benzie Food Partners served an average of 174 households a month. Over the course of the year the Food Partners distributed over 90,000 pounds of food to 5,898 Benzie County residents. Betty brought a sample of the food items that are distributed by the Partners.  In addition to food items, personal hygiene and health items are also offered to those in need.
 
While it is unfortunate that there are so many families in Benzie County in need of food pantries, it is wonderful that dedicated people like Betty have stepped up to help fill the need. (Click on picture for a larger view.)